Yucatan Peninsula’s Aquifer at Risk: Salinization Threat Looms

Rising sea levels, decreased rainfall, and high temperatures are posing a significant threat to the Yucatan Peninsula’s aquifer, according to Gonzalo Merediz Alonso, director of Amigos de Sian Ka’an. He warns that if immediate action is not taken, these conditions could lead to saltwater intrusion into the aquifer within the next two to three decades, potentially reducing fresh water availability by up to 50%.

Amigos de Sian Ka’an is a leading environmental organization in Mexico, dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development in the Yucatán Peninsula. Established in 1986, the organization initially focused on protecting the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most ecologically significant areas in the world. Over time, its scope expanded to address broader environmental challenges in Quintana Roo and beyond.

The organization’s mission is to promote sustainable use of natural resources, protect ecosystems, and foster environmental education. Through research, community engagement, and advocacy, Amigos de Sian Ka’an works to ensure the long-term health of critical habitats, such as tropical forests, coral reefs, and coastal ecosystems.

Alonso explains that both population growth and climate change have escalated the demand for water in the region. While the Yucatan Peninsula is not currently experiencing a water crisis like other parts of the country, its flat geography amplifies the effects of rising sea levels, making the aquifer more vulnerable.

Additionally, decreased rainfall and drought periods heighten the risk of salinization. This could have detrimental effects on both human consumption and local agriculture, as well as the area’s ecosystems.

Alonso also stresses the importance of both rural and urban communities taking measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change on water resources. Water availability is not only vital for human consumption and agriculture, but also for maintaining the balance of ecosystems, which rely on this resource for their survival.

Alonso emphasizes the need for effective public policies to prevent water scarcity and protect ecosystems. He points to the National Water Agreement 2024-2030, proposed by President Claudia Sheinbaum, as a significant opportunity to address this issue.

In November 2024, President Sheinbaum introduced the National Water Plan for 2024–2030, a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing the nation’s water challenges through sustainable management and equitable distribution. The plan is structured around four key pillars:

1. Water Policy and National Sovereignty: This pillar emphasizes the recognition of water as a human right and a national asset, moving away from its treatment as a commodity. The plan seeks to reassess existing water concessions, encouraging the voluntary return of unused allocations to ensure availability for essential needs, particularly human consumption. This approach aims to prevent the hoarding and overexploitation of water resources.
   
2. Justice and Access to Water: The plan focuses on ensuring equitable access to water across all sectors of society. It includes the creation of a National Water Registry to enhance transparency and accountability in water management. Additionally, the plan proposes reforms to the National Water Law and the enactment of a General Water Law, reinforcing the commitment to water as a fundamental human right.
   
3. Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change: Recognizing the impacts of climate change on water resources, this pillar promotes the development of infrastructure projects such as dams and aqueducts, particularly in drought-prone northern regions. It also emphasizes the restoration of wetlands, river sanitation, and reforestation efforts to enhance environmental resilience.
   
4. Comprehensive and Transparent Management: The plan advocates for the modernization of water management systems, including the digitization and simplification of administrative procedures to reduce corruption and improve efficiency. It also calls for technological innovation in water treatment and reuse, aiming for sustainable and transparent resource management.

A significant component of the plan is the National Agreement for the Human Right to Water and Sustainability, signed by President Sheinbaum, all 32 state governors, and representatives from the private sector and irrigation districts.

This agreement underscores a collective commitment to sustainable water use, with the private sector pledging to relinquish rights to at least 126 million cubic meters of water and invest over 21 billion pesos (approximately US$1 billion) in infrastructure and technological improvements. Irrigation districts have also agreed to return 2.8 billion cubic meters of water to the nation.

The National Water Plan 2024–2030 represents a holistic approach to water management in Mexico, aiming to balance human needs, economic development, and environmental sustainability. By fostering collaboration across governmental levels, the private sector, and civil society, the plan aspires to secure a sustainable and equitable water future for the country.